Recent high-profile security lapses and safety concerns have damaged the Russian Federal Atomic Energy Agency’s standing. Aware of its PR failings, the body has launched a hunt to find the nuclear industry’s most beautiful…

The well-managed caricature of Margaret Thatcher often overshadowed some questionable ideas.

Historians have paid much attention to Margaret Thatcher’s father, a grocer and Methodist alderman from Grantham. Thatcher adored and emulated her dad: in many ways it was his work ethic and family-business values that laid…

Even the most far-sighted fashion fans would have to concede that Chile is decidedly off the typical style map.

Even the most far-sighted fashion fans would have to concede that Chile is decidedly off the typical style map. But Santiago banking scion Jorge Yarur Bascuñán is quietly battling – and bidding – to place his homeland…

While many Lebanese hit the beach on weekends, some head to museums. Opened to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon in the small town of Mlita (south Lebanon) is Hezbollah’s latest…

As summer starts to fade (or never arrives), it’s time to sharpen up sartorially with some key pieces from the new season’s collections – ideal for making a subtle statement back in the office or on that last-minute flight…

It’s Cool Biz time of year in Japan again. In fact, 1 June now marks the start of the more concentrated Super Cool Biz season. For those who have somehow missed it, the Cool Biz campaign was launched by the Japanese Mini…

It’s all very well wanting to stand out from the crowd but when you’re revamping your region’s image, at least make sure it comes out looking better. David Michon wonders whether Quebec knows what it’s doing.

What are your favourite cities? Where can you imagine yourself moving to, setting up a business and settling into? Maybe you have a handful in mind. Maybe you're struggling to choose between Zürich’s calming efficiency, New…

The descent back into military rule in Egypt and the poor results of many protests worldwide is due to a lack of leadership.

The uprisings in Egypt, the protests in Istanbul and Rio, the Occupy demonstrations in New York and London. There is one thing which links them all, one thing which has guaranteed their failure. They have no leaders.

While the Michelle Obamas of this world are duty-bound to back their powerful husbands and their policies, Japan’s first ladies tend to be rather less obliging.

When the Japanese prime minister, Shinzo Abe, headed off to Bali yesterday for the APEC summit he was accompanied by his wife, Akie. Mrs Abe, who also goes by her DJ handle Akky, has described herself as the opposition…

Donatella Versace threw a little party in New York on Tuesday night. It was a typically understated affair, befitting the godmother of all things outré and opulent. Rapper-du-jour Nicki Minaj was there, in a floral catsuit…

Last week, the Venezuelan government unveiled its latest initiative against the opposition media.

Last week, the Venezuelan government unveiled its latest initiative against the opposition media. Groups of so-called “communication guerillas”, made up of thousands of school children and students dressed in military-style…

A middle-aged man in official-looking clothing marches down the street. He’s determined, on a mission.

A middle-aged man in official-looking clothing marches down the street. He’s determined, on a mission. He spots his target, a group of unassuming teenage tourists from Seoul. He approaches, gives a stern talk with a furr…

Aircraft carriers may not pose the same military threat that they did in their heyday but that hasn’t stopped India launching a brand new one - and it looks like China won’t be far behind. Why the enduring appeal?

When country A invades country B, when a forbidden border is crossed, when a cold war goes hot and when, yes, the first shots are fired, the top brass in charge inevitably ask: “Where are the carriers?” That, at least, is…

Our recently settled Hong Kong bureau chief is amazed to discover that tasks such as setting up utilities and buying a new phone can be simple, stress-free experiences.

I am happy to admit that I have no talent whatsoever when it comes to admin. Filling in forms, phoning call centres or setting up just about anything drives me up the wall. I never seem to have the right information on me…

Dressed all in white, promising a crowd of adoring supporters he would one day return, Charles Taylor boarded a private jet to Nigeria where a comfortable life in exile awaited.

Charles Taylor left Liberia in style. Dressed all in white, promising a crowd of adoring supporters he would one day return, Taylor boarded a private jet to Nigeria where a comfortable life in exile awaited.